When it comes to job hunting, there’s a lot of advice out there—from how to write the perfect resume and prep for an interview to networking strategies, leveraging LinkedIn, and mastering the art of the thank you note. Those elements are essential, yes. But in a competitive job market, they alone won’t separate you from the pack; there are others out there who come to the table with advanced skills, deep expertise, and impressive experience, vying for the same job as you. How can you differentiate yourself in the eyes of a potential employer amid a crowded pool of equally talented candidates?
Be authentic.
It’s so simple, yet often overlooked in a world where conformity and “corporate speak” are frequently mistaken for professionalism. Today, it’s all about standing out from the masses—not blending in with them.
Why authenticity matters
Human beings, regardless of their role in a company or professional prowess, crave authentic human interaction with other human beings. It’s how people connect and develop chemistry. Your interviewers don’t want to hear more of the same—they want to see you for who you truly are; they want to form that human connection with you.
While authenticity is a natural trait that we’re all capable of expressing, it may be hard to embrace in a professional setting. It’s been ingrained in many of us that we need to conform to a certain corporate persona to fit a mold of what we believe a professional ‘should’ look like. Times have changed and it calls for a shift in thinking.
Here are five ways you can cultivate a more authentic mindset before you step foot into that interview:
- Rehearse your real story: Prepare for the interview by reflecting on your genuine experiences and how they’ve shaped you. Rehearsing your story helps you present a coherent and authentic narrative that goes beyond the typical canned answers.
- Align your intentions with your values: Before the interview, clarify your intentions. Why do you want this job? How does it align with your values? This clarity in your own mind will help you answer even the trickiest interview questions with genuine authenticity.
- Embrace your genuine qualities: Toss out that notion of what “the right candidate” is supposed to look like and instead focus on the qualities and strengths that make you who you are. After all, you’ve gotten this far by being you, not trying to be someone else. This self-affirmation can boost your confidence and help you present yourself in a more centered and genuine way during the interview.
- Draw from your personal insights: Before the interview, take some time to think about the insights you’ve gained from your life experiences. How have your unique challenges and successes contributed to your approach to work? This reflection can help you articulate a personal philosophy that is authentic to you and resonates with others.
- Be curious: Go into the interview with a curious mindset about the company and role. Asking questions out of genuine curiosity demonstrates an authentic interest in the position and company, which will naturally lead to more engaging conversations.
Demonstrating authenticity is not just about impressing the person on the other side of the table—it’s also about finding the right fit for you. You will naturally attract like-minded employers who foster a culture of trust and integrity while also positioning yourself for greater job satisfaction by finding a position that truly fits who you are.
Being authentic in your job search and professional life isn’t about revealing everything to everyone; it’s about being true to your values, being consistent in your words and actions, and engaging with others in a way that is respectful and genuine.
For more information about how J2 can help you find and prepare for that perfect role, contact us here: https://j2-solutions.com/do-you-need-to-write-a-thank-you-note-after-an-interview/